If you have had any orthodontic treatment like braces or Invisalign, you would have received a retainer for a while. That is because after orthodontic treatment is over, the tissues and ligaments that hold your teeth in place become relatively flexible and loose. You must wear retainers as instructed to ensure your teeth retain the new setting and not go back to old positions until your tissues settle. If you fail to do that, all the great work done through orthodontic treatment will become undone.

What are Retainers?

Retainers are mouth devices that are made up of either metal or plastic. Retainers are custom-made for every patient to match the shape of the patient’s mouth and the alignment of their teeth. Retainers are of two different types:

1. Removable – You can put these in your mouth and take them out daily. The clear retainers are made of a plastic-like material and appear like a transparent tray or wire retainers that are made of plastic-like and wire materials.
2. Fixed – Fixed retainers are bonded to the tongue side of a patient’s upper or lower teeth. They are custom-fitted and made up of thin wire.

Retainers are your last step towards achieving a perfect smile. Even if your teeth have reached their ideal positions, your orthodontic treatment cannot be over without retainers. Wearing it will support the tissues in your jaws and gums to solidify the results obtained thus far.

Will it Work If You Use Your Old Retainers To Straighten Your Teeth?

If you miss out on wearing your retainers for many days and notice that your teeth have begun to shift out of their place, there is still a chance that you can rectify it with your old retainers. 

Though you must note that at times wearing retainers can harm your teeth more than good. It all depends on how long you have gone without wearing your retainers. If it has been just a few days, weeks, or maybe even a month, then your old retainer can do the job. But if it’s longer, like months or a year, the retainer would most likely feel uncomfortable and small. The discomfort arises because the position of your teeth and bite has changed. 

Here are some actions you are recommended based on the duration you have gone without retainers:

• A few days or a week – It is very likely your retainers will fit, and you can continue using them to fix the changes that occurred when you did not wear them.
• A few weeks (or one month) – This is a slightly more extended period, and if your retainer feels uncomfortable, then you need to consult your orthodontist. Your dentist will let you know if it is safe to wear them or not.
• A few months or years – If many months or years have gone without retainers, do not attempt to wear them. It is improbable that they would fit and might get stuck, cause pain, and even potentially damage nearby tissues and your teeth due to undue pressure being put on them by the retainer. 

Before making a decision to wear your old retainers, it is advisable to schedule an appointment with your orthodontist. You should take your old retainers along, and the dental professional should adjust the retainers to fit you or give you a new one.

Book your appointment now and get your dental issues resolved!